Cheese & Ham Stuffed Chicken

There’s something so comforting about slicing into a golden, crispy chicken parcel and watching warm, gooey cheese stretch out, tangled with salty slices of ham. This dish is pure indulgence, with just the right balance of savory richness and home-cooked simplicity. It’s one of those meals that feels like a little celebration, whether you serve it up on a busy weeknight or as the centerpiece of a cozy dinner party.

Behind the Recipe

The idea for this recipe was born during one of those nights where all I wanted was something cheesy, warm, and deeply satisfying without having to fuss over multiple pans. I remembered the classic cordon bleu but wanted something a bit more rustic, a little less formal, but just as comforting. So I tucked slices of ham and shredded mozzarella inside tender chicken, sealed it up, and let the oven work its magic. What came out was a dish that’s now a staple in my kitchen.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Cheese and ham stuffed chicken has roots in the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu, a dish that originated in Switzerland. The name “cordon bleu” translates to “blue ribbon,” a term historically associated with excellence in French cuisine. Though the classic version often includes a breaded exterior and Swiss cheese, this variation leans more casual and accessible, using mozzarella for extra meltiness and a simpler pan-cooked approach that still delivers all the flavors of its fine-dining cousin.

Why You’ll Love Cheese & Ham Stuffed Chicken

This dish is more than just comforting. It checks all the boxes for a weeknight wonder or a weekend showstopper.

Versatile: Works with many cheeses and even different deli meats. You can even slice it and serve it over pasta or salad.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that stretch across several servings.

Quick and Easy: Prep takes minutes, and the oven does the rest. It’s a fuss-free recipe.

Customizable: Swap the mozzarella for provolone or cheddar. Try adding herbs or even a touch of mustard for zing.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves melty cheese, and the crispy chicken exterior seals the deal.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble earlier in the day and just bake when ready.

Great for Leftovers: Slices beautifully for sandwiches or wraps the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

This dish is forgiving, but a few insider tricks can make it absolutely exceptional.

1. Use parchment paper when flattening the chicken to avoid tearing the meat.
2. Chill the rolled chicken for 10 minutes before cooking to help keep the cheese from escaping.
3. Use toothpicks or cooking twine to secure the edges tightly.
4. Don’t skip resting the chicken for a few minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
5. Add a splash of broth to the baking dish for extra moisture during cooking.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need a gourmet setup for this dish, just a few reliable basics.

Sharp knife: For slicing into the chicken and later serving.

Cutting board: To flatten and prep your ingredients.

Plastic wrap or parchment paper: For flattening the chicken cleanly.

Meat mallet or rolling pin: To get that perfect even thickness.

Skillet or baking dish: To cook everything up nice and even.

Toothpicks or twine: To keep your stuffed chicken tightly sealed.

Ingredients in Cheese & Ham Stuffed Chicken

This recipe shines because every ingredient plays its part in building layers of flavor.

1. Chicken fillets: 4 large, skinless + Flattened to even thickness so they wrap around the filling easily.
2. Sliced ham: 8 slices + Adds a salty, savory bite that balances the creamy cheese.
3. Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 ½ cups + Melts beautifully and oozes into every bite.
4. Garlic: 2 cloves, minced + Brings aromatic warmth that infuses the chicken as it bakes.
5. Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons + Helps brown the outside and creates a rich, silky finish.
6. Salt: 1 teaspoon + Enhances every flavor in the dish.
7. Black pepper: ½ teaspoon + Adds just enough kick to cut through the richness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Life’s unpredictable, but your dinner doesn’t have to be.

Chicken fillets: Use turkey cutlets if needed.

Shredded mozzarella: Try provolone, gouda, or even a mild cheddar.

Sliced ham: Smoked turkey slices work well too.

Garlic: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

Unsalted butter: Olive oil is a good lighter alternative.

Ingredient Spotlight

Mozzarella Cheese: Known for its excellent melt, mozzarella gives this dish its signature cheesy pull. It’s creamy, mild, and balances perfectly with salty ham.

Ham: Adds a depth of umami flavor. The smokiness from a good quality ham can transform the entire dish.

Instructions for Making Cheese & Ham Stuffed Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with the process. It’s surprisingly simple, incredibly satisfying, and delicious every step of the way.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   On each flattened chicken fillet, lay 2 slices of ham and a generous handful of shredded mozzarella. Sprinkle with a little garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Add a tablespoon of butter to the base of your baking dish. This helps create a flavorful base and prevents sticking.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Roll the chicken tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Secure with toothpicks or tie with twine. Place seam-side down in the dish.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Melt the remaining butter and drizzle it over the top of the rolls. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Spoon some of the buttery juices over the top for extra flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Slice and serve with a crisp salad or buttery mashed potatoes.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic lies in the contrast. The crispy outer layer of the chicken gives way to tender meat and gooey cheese. The ham adds just the right amount of saltiness, and the garlic butter brings everything together in a warm, savory hug.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few helpful ideas to keep things easy and delicious:

• Use parchment to flatten the chicken without making a mess.
• Chill the rolled chicken to help hold its shape.
• Add a splash of white wine or broth to the pan for extra moisture.
• Serve with a fresh herb sprinkle for color and fragrance.

What to Avoid

It’s a simple dish, but there are a couple of traps to steer clear of:

• Overstuffing the chicken, which can cause it to burst while cooking.
• Not sealing the edges well, leading to melted cheese loss.
• Skipping the resting period, which lets juices run out.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 410

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can stuff and roll the chicken up to a day ahead and store it wrapped in the fridge. Cook when ready. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture. You can also freeze uncooked rolls for up to a month.

How to Serve Cheese & Ham Stuffed Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes, garlic green beans, or a crisp garden salad. You can also serve it sliced over pasta with a drizzle of the buttery pan sauce.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t toss those extras. They make fantastic:

• Chicken wraps with a bit of lettuce and Dijon.
• Stuffed paninis with tomato slices.
• Chopped in omelets for a rich breakfast upgrade.

Additional Tips

• Choose evenly sized fillets so they cook at the same rate.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt.
• Add a sprinkle of paprika for a hint of color and warmth.

Make It a Showstopper

Slice before serving and fan the pieces out slightly to show off the gooey center. Drizzle a little melted butter on top and finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve on a wooden board or large ceramic platter for that rustic, elegant look.

Variations to Try

• Spinach & Cheese: Add a layer of wilted spinach for extra greens.
• Cream Cheese Filling: Mix in a little cream cheese for a richer center.
• Pesto Twist: Spread pesto on the inside before layering ham and cheese.
• Spicy Kick: Add a slice of jalapeño or pepper jack cheese.
• Italian Style: Use prosciutto and provolone for a Mediterranean flavor.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of fillets?

Yes, but they’re harder to roll and may take longer to cook evenly.

Q2: What cheese works best if I don’t have mozzarella?

Provolone, gouda, or even a mild cheddar will do the trick.

Q3: Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes, sear all sides in a skillet then finish in a covered pan over low heat.

Q4: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Don’t overfill, and seal the edges tightly with toothpicks or twine.

Q5: Can I freeze this?

Yes, freeze uncooked, stuffed chicken rolls in plastic wrap and foil for up to a month.

Q6: Is it safe to reheat in the microwave?

It’s safe but may make the chicken rubbery. Oven reheating is better.

Q7: Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.

Q8: What sauce goes well with this?

A light mustard cream or garlic butter sauce complements it beautifully.

Q9: Can I add veggies inside the chicken?

Yes, thinly sliced bell peppers or spinach work well.

Q10: What’s the best way to flatten the chicken?

Place between two sheets of parchment and gently pound with a mallet or rolling pin.

Conclusion

Cheese & Ham Stuffed Chicken brings together comfort, simplicity, and a touch of indulgence all in one bite. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just treating yourself, this dish is bound to earn a spot in your regular rotation. Trust me, it’s worth every bite.

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